Chicory Root Powder Boosts Digestion in Puppies
A study of 16 Labrador puppies found chicory supplementation improved fiber digestibility and gut bacteria balance.
Updated on Nov. 3, 2026 in Nutrition
Research published in Biocatalysis and Agricultural Biotechnology tested whole chicory root powder in growing dogs fed homemade diets. Chicory supplementation increased fiber digestibility and beneficial bifidobacteria and lactobacilli while reducing clostridia and coliform bacteria.
Why it matters
Chicory is already used in commercial dog and cat foods mainly as a prebiotic fiber source, so these findings speak to how such ingredients perform in practice. The results suggest whole root powder may offer an alternative to purified prebiotic ingredients in pet food formulations.
The study compared four diets with 0, 5, 10 or 15 grams of chicory root powder per kilogram of dietary dry matter in 16 Labrador puppies. The 10-gram level was the most beneficial overall, while whether the findings hold for commercial foods and adult dogs remains unknown.
The details
Researchers measured digestibility, intestinal bacteria populations, short-chain fatty acid production, plasma lipids and immune markers. Chicory reduced dry matter, organic matter and nitrogen-free extract digestibility compared with the control diet, while lowering plasma glucose, triglycerides and cholesterol.
Timeline
Article on the research published November 3, 2026.
Big Picture
Chicory is already an established prebiotic fiber source in commercial dog and cat foods. This research tests whole chicory root powder in growing puppies, extending that practice toward a less processed ingredient.
Pet owners using commercial foods with chicory may already be receiving prebiotic fiber. The study does not yet show whether whole chicory root powder should be added to a dog's diet at home.
The takeaway
Fiber ingredients like chicory may support gut health in dogs, but the findings come from a small study of puppies. Pet owners should consult a veterinarian before changing a dog's diet based on this research.
Further reading
Explore more on Nutrition for context on how fiber ingredients shape digestion in pets and people.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Petfood Industry Community.
